Super Eagles defender, Calvin Bassey, had a five-star performance in his UEFA Champions League debut helping new club Ajax Amsterdam thrash his former side Glasgow Rangers 4-0 in their season opener on Wednesday at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
Steven Berghuis, Edson Alvarez, Mohammed Kudus and Steven Bergwijn were on the scoresheet while Bassey was instrumental in his side keeping a clean sheet.
Bassey who had a night to remember played a total 142 successful passes – just 60 fewer than the whole Rangers squad combined (202). He also had eight recoveries and one assist.
Speaking after the game, the Nigeria international says he was delighted with the win and hopes they continue building on the success.
“I’m buzzing because we got the win but at the same time I can’t even explain the feeling, it is weird. When I’m not playing against the boys (Rangers) I always wish them the best and root for them to win but to be against them, I just had to switch the focus. Now I’m here (with Ajax) I’ve got to give my 100% so we’re just pleased to get the win,” Bassey told Football on BT after the game.
“I wouldn’t say the game was easy, I’ll say we executed what the manager wanted from us. I know there’s still work to be done to get better but we’re pleased with the performance but we need to get better.”
With the win, Ajax currently sit top of Group A ahead of Napoli, Liverpool and Rangers.